Avani Lekhara is an Indian Paralympic shooter who gained widespread recognition for her remarkable achievements in sports. She made history by winning the gold medal in the women’s 10m air rifle standing (SH1) event at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, becoming the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic gold medal. Avani also secured a bronze medal in the women’s 50m rifle 3 positions event at the same Paralympics, further solidifying her status as a trailblazer in Indian sports.
Born on November 8, 2001, in Jaipur, Rajasthan, Avani suffered a severe spinal cord injury in a car accident in 2012, which left her paralyzed from the waist down. Despite the challenges, she found her passion in shooting and was inspired by former Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra. Avani’s determination and perseverance led her to break barriers in para-sports, and her success has made her a role model for many aspiring athletes in India.
Her achievements have been celebrated across the country, and she has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Khel Ratna Award, India’s highest sporting honor.
Avani Lekhara continued her outstanding performance at the Paris 2024 Paralympics by defending her title in the Women’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 event. She secured her second consecutive Paralympic gold with a record-breaking score of 249.7, surpassing the previous record she set at Tokyo 2020. This achievement made her the first Indian woman to win two Paralympic gold medals, solidifying her status as one of India’s top para-athletes.
Avani’s victory was part of a historic moment for India, as fellow Indian para-shooter Mona Agarwal won the bronze in the same event, marking the first time India had a double podium finish at the Paralympics. Avani has now won three Paralympic medals, adding to her gold and bronze from the Tokyo 2020 Games. Her achievements have inspired many and cemented her place as a role model in Indian sports.